June 21 marks an important day in Canada: National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Coinciding with the summer solstice, National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Originally known as National Aboriginal Day, Indigenous Peoples Day was chosen by the Government of Canada in collaboration with Indigenous communities and organizations.
The significance of the day was acknowledged at the College’s convocation ceremony on the morning of June 21 – the second day of the College’s June convocation week.
“We encourage everyone to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people,” said Vice President, Academic Fiona Allan.
Indigenous Education at NC hosted two initiatives in advance of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 20 at the Welland Campus: a Three Sisters Soup lunch and a Sweetgrass Braiding Session.
“We encourage the NC community to support local Indigenous celebrations,” said Leah Hogan, Associate Director of Student Services. “We would also like to take this opportunity to share our unique and growing Indigenous collection and resources within our Niagara College Library in partnership with Indigenous Education.”
View Indigenous resources
Explore a variety of Indigenous books, e-books, online videos and films and podcasts which are available from the NC Libraries at nclibraries.niagaracollege.ca/indigenoused/rwl.
Get involved with the community
The Niagara Regional Native Centre, in partnership with the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre and the City of St. Catharines, is hosting Indigenous Solidarity Day in St. Catharines with various events from 9 a.m. to sunset. Details are available on Facebook here.
The Fort Erie Native Centre is hosting a Remembering the Children event on its site, which began with a sunrise gathering and lighting of the fire at 5:30 a.m., and continues through the day until 5 p.m. View plans on its Facebook page here.
Learn more
For information about Indigenous Education at NC visit niagaracollege.ca/indigenouseducation.
Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day on the Government of Canada website here:rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1534874583157
